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Getting a new kitten is exciting, but it's easy to forget details about their care in your excitement, especially if you haven't had many cats before. Your kitten will have different needs from a puppy or an adult cat, and it will take time and dedication to care for them properly. To make sure you have an adequate care plan in place, consider the following veterinarian-approved checklist for new kitten owners.

Shopping List

First, choose a reputable food brand and make sure the formula you purchase is for kittens, not adult cats, as they have different nutrition and energy needs. Next, look for a litter box with a ramp or a low opening to let your kitten in easily, and be sure to pick up cat litter as well. You'll need pet grooming supplies that are designed for your cat's fur texture; long-haired cats tend to need combs and shorthairs need brushes. Cat trees and beds aren't required as long as the cat has something comfortable to sit, sleep, and climb on, but they will help keep your pet off your furniture. Invest in a scratching post or mat, since scratching is healthy and instinctive for cats. Choose a carrier that's easy to open and disassemble. Finally, get a few toys, as they keep your cat entertained and happy and encourage them to exercise.

Daily Needs

Veterinarian Elyria, OHYour kitten is growing quickly, so for the first year of life, they'll need more food than an adult cat. You should plan to feed your kitten three or four times a day. While they groom themselves to some extent, you should brush long-haired cats daily and short-haired ones weekly. This will help minimize shedding and furballs, and prevent their fur from matting. Scoop the litter box every day, but check the bag for instructions about how often you need to replace the litter. You might clean and refill the litterbox anywhere from every three days to every three weeks, depending on your cat and your type of litter. Finally, make sure to spend time every day playing with your kitten, holding them, petting them, and talking to them. This helps keep them stimulated, so they don't develop destructive habits, gives them chances to exercise, and helps them bond with you.

Veterinarian Visits

When your kitten is 8-10 weeks old, they'll need to visit a veterinarian for the first time for an exam and vaccinations, and they'll need a followup visit a few weeks later for more vaccinations. At five to six months old, your vet can spay and neuter kittens. This is strongly recommended for health and behavioral reasons and to prevent the birth of unwanted kittens.

 

To find a veterinarian for your kitten in Lorain County, OH, call Elyria Animal Hospital. Their caring staff provides boarding and grooming services, standard exams and vaccinations, and in-house lab testing and laser surgery. Call (440) 365-3818 today to make an appointment, or visit their website for a full range of their services.

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